How To Maintain The Underhood Rubber Components In Your Vehicle

Posted on May 9, 2022 in Maintenance

Rubber is used in parts throughout your car's engine. The great thing about rubber is that it's extremely resilient but, like all engine components, they're still prone to wear over time. It's important to make sure all of your underhood rubber components are in good shape by taking a few minutes to look them over every few months. Here's a quick checklist of underhood rubber components that need to be inspected every few months:

Hoses

Many of the hoses in your vehicle are made of rubber because of their resiliency against the elements and compatibility with various fluids. The radiator hose, for example, carries coolant to keep your engine at the proper temperature. Over time, hoses are prone to cracking leading to leaks and tears which can cause serious issues for your engine.

Belts

Belts are also made of rubber, as they're highly durable and need to last for years at a time. Your timing belt, for example, keeps your engine's various components synchronized and working in harmony. Because they're so durable it can be hard to notice signs of wear and misalignment, but even minor flaws can compound over time to create massive problems for your engine— when a belt breaks down, it often causes a chain reaction with the major systems in your car connected to it.

Seals & Gaskets

Engine gaskets are also made of rubber to create efficient seals to prevent leaks in hoses and pipes throughout your engine. If you notice a leak underneath your vehicle, it's important to make sure that your gaskets are in good condition.

At V&F Auto

Changing seasons and drastic temperature fluctuations can be hard on belts, hoses, and other components. If you see noticeable wear on the rubber parts of your engine, come in to see us as soon as possible. Our team of expert technicians will diagnose the problem, make the necessary repairs, and work to prevent it from happening in the future. Plus, all of our auto repair services are backed by an industry-leading 3-year / 36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor! Call us today at (413) 314-2280 or schedule an appointment online.